Lake Owlhead Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Owlhead in Hazelhurst, Georgia, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Designed by R. Boyne Stone, this earth dam stands at 15 feet high and spans 1335 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 562.5 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 233 acre-feet, this picturesque lake covers a surface area of 50 acres.

While the dam's hazard potential is undetermined and its condition is not rated, it undergoes inspections every five years, with the last inspection conducted in September 2014. The spillway is uncontrolled, and the outlet gates operate in a similar manner. Although the risk assessment for Lake Owlhead deems it to have a moderate risk level, specific risk management measures and inundation maps are currently unavailable.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Lake Owlhead a charming retreat in Jeff Davis County, Georgia. This serene reservoir, nestled in the heart of nature, offers a haven for outdoor activities and relaxation. However, with its regulatory status undetermined and a moderate risk level assigned, there is a need for further assessment and management to ensure the continued safety and enjoyment of this beautiful water resource.

Dam Length

1335

Dam Height

15

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

14.8

Nid Storage

562.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.